WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Get ready to wow your guests with my Winning Sugar Cookie Eggnog Cocktail! This festive and fun drink combines cozy flavors for the perfect holiday treat. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each ingredient, give you step-by-step instructions, and share useful tips to make this cocktail stand out. Whether you want to impress at a party or enjoy a cozy night in, this festive drink is sure to be a hit!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: This cocktail captures the classic holiday taste of eggnog, enhanced with warm spices, making it perfect for the season.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you can whip this up in no time!
- Perfectly Creamy: The combination of eggnog and milk creates a rich and creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Garnish Galore: The crushed sugar cookie and whipped cream topping add a delightful crunch and sweetness that elevates the drink.
Ingredients
Detailed List of Ingredients
– 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
– ½ cup milk
– ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 small sugar cookie, crushed (for garnish)
– Whipped cream (for topping)
– Extra cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional)
Key Ingredient Highlights
Eggnog is the heart of this drink. It adds creamy richness and holiday flavor. The milk lightens the eggnog and makes it smooth. Vanilla extract gives a warm, sweet note. Sugar balances the spices and adds a touch of sweetness. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and spice. Finally, the sugar cookie garnish brings a fun touch and a hint of crunch.
Substitute Options
If you can’t find eggnog, use a mix of milk and cream with a dash of nutmeg. For a lighter drink, use almond milk or oat milk. If you want to skip sugar, try a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup. You can also skip the sugar cookie and use crushed gingerbread for a festive twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps Breakdown
1. Grab a medium saucepan.
2. Pour in 1 cup of eggnog and ½ cup of milk.
3. Heat on low. Stir gently until warm. Do not let it boil.
4. Add ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ¼ teaspoon each of ground cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Stir until the sugar dissolves and spices mix well.
6. Take it off the heat. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
7. Pour the mixture into a tall glass or a cocktail glass.
8. Top with whipped cream.
9. Garnish with crushed sugar cookie and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
10. Add a cinnamon stick if you like.
Tips for Perfecting Each Step
– Use low heat to prevent boiling. This keeps the flavors rich.
– Stir slowly to mix the spices well. This makes every sip tasty.
– Let it cool a bit to avoid burning your mouth.
– Choose a fun glass to make it festive.
– Use fresh spices for a strong flavor punch.
Equipment Needed
– Medium saucepan
– Stirring spoon
– Measuring spoons
– Tall glass or cocktail glass
– Whisk or ladle (optional for pouring)
– Small plate (for crushed cookies)
Tips & Tricks
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cocktail in tall glasses for a fun look. You can also try festive mugs. For a special touch, pair it with sweet snacks like gingerbread cookies or mini pies. This drink works well as a dessert or a holiday party treat.
Presentation Ideas
Make your drink pop with whipped cream on top. Add crushed sugar cookie for a crunchy flair. A sprinkle of cinnamon gives it a warm look. You can place a cinnamon stick in the glass for stirring. This simple detail adds elegance to your festive drink.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid boiling the eggnog and milk mix. Boiling can change the taste and texture. Make sure to dissolve the sugar fully. If not, it can leave a grainy feel. Lastly, do not skip the garnishes. They make your drink more appealing and enhance the flavor.
Pro Tips
- Chill Your Glasses: For an extra refreshing experience, chill your cocktail glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste; adding a pinch of allspice or ginger can also enhance the flavor.
- Make It a Mocktail: To enjoy a non-alcoholic version, simply skip any added spirits and focus on the delicious eggnog and milk mixture.
- Garnish Creatively: Experiment with different toppings like chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or even a mini sugar cookie on a skewer for a fun twist.

Variations
Ingredient Modifications
You can switch up the base of this cocktail. Instead of eggnog, try using flavored milk. Almond or coconut milk adds a nice twist. You can also use low-fat milk for a lighter version. Play with the sugar too; use brown sugar for a richer taste. This small change can make a big difference.
Non-Alcoholic Version
To make this drink non-alcoholic, simply skip any alcohol. Use extra eggnog or flavored milk. The rich flavors stand on their own. You still get a festive drink that everyone can enjoy. Top it with whipped cream and crushed cookie for the full effect.
Seasonal Flavor Additions
Want to give your cocktail a seasonal touch? Add a splash of peppermint extract for a fresh kick. You can also throw in some orange zest for a citrusy burst. Another option is to mix in ginger or pumpkin spice. These flavors make your drink feel more special and festive.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
Store any leftover Winning Sugar Cookie Eggnog Cocktail in a sealed container. Keep it in the fridge. This cocktail tastes best cold. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to drink it within two days.
Reheating Instructions
If you prefer your cocktail warm, gently reheat it. Pour the cocktail into a saucepan. Heat it on low. Stir gently until it’s warm but not boiling. This keeps the flavors nice and smooth.
Shelf Life of Ingredients
Eggnog lasts about 5-7 days in the fridge after opening. Milk can stay fresh for about a week, depending on the sell-by date. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg remain good for months when stored in a cool, dark place. Always check for freshness before using.
FAQs
Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cocktail ahead. Just prepare it and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. Before serving, gently reheat it on low heat. Stir well to mix everything up again.
What can I use instead of eggnog?
If you don’t have eggnog, you can use a few other options. Try using sweetened milk or cream. You can blend milk with some sugar and vanilla for a similar taste. Another option is to use a dairy-free eggnog made from almond or oat milk.
How do I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?
To make a non-alcoholic version, simply skip any spirits. The base of eggnog and milk is tasty enough. You can also add a little more vanilla extract for extra flavor. Top with whipped cream and crushed cookies to keep it festive!
In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips for making a great cocktail. We discussed substitutes for ingredients and how to avoid common mistakes. We also shared variations, such as seasonal flavors and non-alcoholic options. Remember to follow the storage tips to keep everything fresh. You now have the tools to make your own delicious drink at home. Enjoy experimenting and impressing your friends with your skill
Winning Sugar Cookie Eggnog Cocktail
A festive and creamy cocktail combining eggnog and milk, topped with whipped cream and garnished with a sugar cookie.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Beverage
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 small sugar cookie, crushed (for garnish)
- 1 serving whipped cream (for topping)
- 1 optional extra cinnamon stick (for garnish)
In a medium saucepan, combine the eggnog and milk over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through but not boiled.
Add the vanilla extract, sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mixture, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the spices are well incorporated.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
Pour the mixture into your favorite tall glass or cocktail glass.
Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
Garnish with crushed sugar cookie and a sprinkle of additional cinnamon.
If desired, add a cinnamon stick for stirring or extra decoration.
For an extra festive touch, add a cinnamon stick for stirring.
Keyword cocktail, eggnog, holiday drink, sugar cookie
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?